Hold Out Or Sell Out? The Republican Dilemma

By Troy Dunn

It is with great frustration which I write this blog for I know my words will be upsetting to many. But it is my hope these same words will strengthen the conviction of many more.

I consider myself a person of conviction and of principles, as you likely consider yourself. Many times a day life presents little opportunities for me to defend my convictions and my principles, beliefs and morals. From the people I opt to associate with to the conversations I engage in, the movies I watch, the books I read and the life I lead. I do my best to walk the talk of what I believe to be right and good.

Occasionally, life will present a scenario which tests our conviction. As a conservative Republican, I believe the current political environment is one of those very moments for those who call themselves conservative. (I suppose the same could be said for those of my friends who are of the Democratic party as well.)

At the time of this writing, the republican candidates are now basically down to two. Romney and McCain. While many left-leaning institutions and public figures offer their endorsement to John McCain, the candidate viewed by many as contrarian to the conservative ideals, the pressure mounts against those of us who are self-proclaimed Reagan-Republicans. There are many, including the national media, who suggest the race is over and republicans should fall in line behind McCain and abandon Romney. But I reject their request for a moral sell-out and I hope you too will embrace your principles and hold out. Send a clear message to the party leadership that selling out or compromising our value system is not what true conservatives do. It is not a reasonable request.

I join with other fellow conservatives in saying I would rather lose the White House and retain my integrity. As difficult as it may be for a few years, I believe the best thing that can happen to the Republican party in this time of significant division, is to hold firmly to our convictions at any cost. Let our actions speak with undeniable clarity. Our beliefs and our principles are not for sale, cannot be traded, bargained for or compromised.

STAND FOR SOMETHING OR FALL FOR ANYTHING
There are many within the GOP who would say that any republican candidate would be better than allowing the White House to pass to the Democratic party. I respectfully disagree. Based on the current direction of the GOP, I believe one of the greatest occurences which can take place is for the true Republicans to send a clear message to the party which says, "We will not compromise our core beliefs. If you want the White House back, you will bring us a candidate consistent with our beliefs and principles. Nothing less will be tolerated."

Until then, my hope is that each of you who consider yourself a Reagan Republican will hold out, not sell out.
May God be with us all. (And that goes for my many Democrat friends as well. )

Troy Dunn